Artists Ryan S. Burvick, Charles Duke, Jocelyn Gutierrez, Christopher Palmer, Hilda Willis, and the late Ankh Ra worked with Mind-Builders Creative Arts Center on a variety of artistic enrichment programs for youth and adults in the Bronx. Ryan used his music production company as a platform to teach and employ students in sound engineering. He also was able to engage in his filmmaking craft by working on documentaries about his teaching at Mind-Builders and at Rikers Island. Charles led the Creative Music Songwriting Program, where he structured curriculum aimed at introducing Bronx students to contemporary songwriting practices. The mission focused on amplifying the voices of Bronx’s youth and teaching students how to articulate and share their unique point of view. Jocelyn led Mind Your Beat, monthly meetups for freestyle dancers interested in learning together in a safe space, to prepare for monthly dance battle sessions. Christopher launched monthly Jazz Nights, public jam sessions for band members to gain experience in performing and improvising, which have included some of his own compositions and arrangements. As an artist embedded in Mind-Builders’ theater department, Hilda launched four pilot programs for artists including one that has continued, in addition to serving as the production manager for multi-disciplinary performances. Ankh Ra Amenhetep began CRNY with the Awakening Youth Vocal Ensemble, a community chorus for teens designed to explore the power of voice using positive and inspirational music. He was deeply loved by the community and is sorely missed.

Founded in 1978, Mind-Builders Creative Arts Center develops skills in a variety of art forms for children, teens, and adults while nurturing self-esteem, building character, and cultivating an appreciation of the diverse cultures within our community. Mind-Builders provides quality music, dance, theater, folk culture and martial arts programs for more than 750 students a year, reaching audiences throughout the Bronx.